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River House (aka Federal Hilton) - Byron Bay Hinterland holiday cottage

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January 2025

Photo gallery for River House (aka Federal Hilton) - Byron Bay Hinterland holiday cottage

Exterior
Interior
Fridge, oven, stovetop, dishwasher
Property grounds
Exterior

Reviews

9.6 out of 10

Exceptional

Entire home

2 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 490 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
  • Barbecue grill
  • Kitchen
  • Fireplace
  • Outdoor space

Explore the area

Map
Federal, NSW
  • Crystal Castle & Shambhala Gardens
    18 min drive
  • Doma Cafe
    5 min drive
  • Mullumbimby Station
    31 min drive
  • Byron Bay, NSW (QYN)
    38 min drive

Room options

About the area

Federal

On river.You'll be within 6 miles (10 km) of Andrew Johnston Big Scrub Nature Reserve and 9 miles (15 km) of Goonengerry National Park. Also within 9 miles (15 km) are Snows Gully Nature Reserve and Gondwana Rainforests of Australia.

What's nearby

  • Crystal Castle & Shambhala Gardens - 18 min drive
  • Main Beach - 28 min drive
  • Cape Byron Lighthouse - 33 min drive
  • The Pass - 35 min drive
  • Wategos Beach - 36 min drive

Getting around

  • Mullumbimby Station - 31 min drive
  • Ballina, NSW (BNK-Ballina - Byron Gateway) - 38 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪The Empire Cafe - ‬22 min drive
  • ‪The Farm Byron Bay - ‬21 min drive
  • ‪Baker and Daughters - ‬22 min drive
  • ‪Mullumbimby Bowling Club - ‬21 min drive
  • ‪The Rock & Roll Coffee Company - ‬22 min drive

About this property

Entire place

You'll have the entire home to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.

River House (aka Federal Hilton) - Byron Bay Hinterland holiday cottage

This is the secret hinterland hide away that has up til now been word of mouth only. The cottage is an eclectic mix of style and comfort. And feels like you're staying in your own holiday house

The 10 acre property has been planted with a variety of tropical fruits - perhaps a grapefruit for breakfast, mango for lunch and a pomegranate for dessert!
The star attraction is the privacy and the beautiful Wilsons River that provides an excellent swimming hole and a regenerated rainforest to wander through or have a picnic lunch.

The layout of the cottage includes combined kitchen and dining room, lounge, main bedroom with double bed and second bedroom with a double bed and a trundle bed, bathroom and covered deck.

You're in the hills but we do have everything a modern holiday maker could want - Electricity, cold and piping hot running water and will be turned on prior to your stay. We have an upright gas stove & oven, fridge, dishwasher, wood burner and cd/radio/ipod dock, tv and dvd, basic furniture, cutlery, crockery, sheets, blankets and dooners for all beds + a CD library and some games and cards. Outside you can cook on a great wood barbeque or on the gas barbie. Plus we have an iron, electric blanket and all the kitchen appliances you’ll need to whip up delicious meals.

The Federal Store: The store is the only shop in the village and is a meeting place for the locals for anything and everything. It acts as the supermarket, bottle shop, post office, newsagent and eftpos outlet.

Some tips: A torch for night time spotting, gum boots for wet weather, table linen for glamour dining and beach towels for taking a dip in the creek or the sea.





Trips in the area

Within the region can be found a number of attractions.

Byron Bay:
Eastern most point of Australia. Lots of restaurants and shops in this rapidly growing tourist spot. Beaches such as Wategoes, Broken Head, Tallow and the Pass are well worth a visit. A pleasant walk and picnic can be had from Wategoes to the lighthouse. There is a golf course on the south side of town.
Ballina:
The home of the big lobster, movie theatre and airport.
Bangalow:
A ‘pretty’ town and now bypassed by the highway. The town has been restored to it’s former glory and hosts galleries, second hand/antique stores and cafes. Try the Woods and visit the country market on the last Sunday of the month.
Minyon Falls:
15 minutes by car from Federal is a 300m cascading waterfall into the valley of the palms. Picnic grounds, look outs all set in rainforest. A number of walks, including a 5km walk to the bottom of the falls.
Brunswick Heads:
10 minutes up the Pacific Highway from Bangalow. Great pub for a counter lunch and lots to discover.
Lennox Heads:
Best right hander on the coast, but watch the rocks.
Nimbin:
Hippyville!
Lismore - Lizard ville:
Bustling regional centre 30km west of Federal. Supermarkets, cafes, airport and University.
Mount Warning:
A day trip for the more adventurous.
Mullumbimby:
A 10km drive from Federal along the Coorabel ridge, giving breathtaking rural and coastal views. ‘The biggest little town in Australia’
The Channon:
30 minutes west, tricky to find but worth the trip for the monthly market (2nd Sunday) great variety of plants, food and crafty produce. Along with the sights and sounds.
The Gold Coast:
Only an hour up the highway to glitz, glamour and gluttony. Casino, Pacific Fair and airport.

Just some suggestions, but you can discover the rest yourselves.

Check out our Instagram account for more images on Federal Hilton #federalhilton



Property manager

Louise Bickle

Languages

English

Property amenities

Parking and transportation

  • Onsite parking
  • Car required

Kitchen

  • Refrigerator
  • Stovetop
  • Oven
  • Dishwasher
  • Kitchen island
  • Blender
  • Electric kettle
  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Spices

Dining

  • Dining table

Bedrooms

  • 2 bedrooms
  • Bed sheets provided

Bathrooms

  • 1 bathroom
  • Shower
  • Towels provided
  • Toilet paper
  • Soap

Living spaces

  • Fireplace
  • Living room

Entertainment

  • TV
  • DVD player
  • Games
  • Music library
  • Books
  • Stereo

Outdoor areas

  • Patio
  • Barbecue grill
  • Garden
  • Outdoor furniture
  • Firepit

Laundry

  • Near laundromat

Comfort

  • Ceiling fan
  • Heating

Pets

  • No pets allowed

Suitability/Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • Area rugs in public areas
  • No elevator (single level property)
  • Smooth flooring in public areas
  • Stair-free path to entrance
  • Tile flooring in public areas
  • Well-lit path to entrance
  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Smoke-free property

Services and conveniences

  • Iron/ironing board
  • Phone

Location highlights

  • On the river
  • In a rural location
  • Near a hospital
  • In a village

Things to do

  • Tennis on site
  • Snorkeling nearby
  • Horse riding nearby
  • Fishing nearby
  • Hiking nearby
  • Birdwatching nearby
  • Cycling nearby
  • Surfing/body boarding nearby
  • Mountain climbing nearby
  • Swimming nearby

Safety features

  • Carbon monoxide detector installed (host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property)
  • Smoke detector installed (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
  • Fire extinguisher
  • First aid kit

General

  • Composting
  • Recycling
  • Eco-friendly cleaning products used
  • Unit size: 969 sq ft (90 sq m)

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 2:00 PM
Contactless check-in available

Check-out

Check-out before 10:00 AM
Contactless check-out available

Special check-in instructions

You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions

Pets

  • No pets allowed

Children and extra beds

  • Children are welcome.

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
This property uses eco-friendly cleaning products
Host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation
Charges for extra guests may apply and vary according to property policy.
A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges and government-issued photo identification may be required upon check-in.
Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in. Special requests can't be guaranteed and may incur additional charges.
    This property is managed by a private host, not a professional engaged in trade or business. Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited. This property uses eco-friendly cleaning products. For guests' safety, the property includes a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, and a first aid kit in each accommodation.

Property Registration Number PID-STRA-29120, 2480

Property is also known as

River House Federal
River House Cottage Federal
River House Cottage
River House
River House Aka Federal Hilton
River House (aka Federal Hilton) Cottage
23218

River House (aka Federal Hilton) - Byron Bay Hinterland holiday cottage Reviews

Reviews

9.6

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 50 out of 59 reviews" "
Rating 8 - Good. 6 out of 59 reviews" "
Rating 6 - Okay. 2 out of 59 reviews" "
Rating 4 - Poor. 1 out of 59 reviews" "
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 59 reviews" "

9.0/10

Cleanliness

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Cameron W.

Liked: Cleanliness
Lovely rainforest cottage
Gorgeous!
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2024

8/10 Good

Jane S.

Liked: Cleanliness
Quirky cottage in lovely setting
Beautiful tropical location in a relaxed, eclectic cottage. Perfect for a relaxed, laidback family holiday away from the main throng.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Lisa D.

Liked: Cleanliness
short escape from the city
A peaceful spot, with a friendly community near by. The artwork was aspiring to curious little minds, as was the art deco furniture pieces and the older cutlery. We look forward to visiting Federal again....hopefully for a bit longer next time.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

David E.

Liked: Cleanliness
Federal Hilton
Relaxing, peaceful, restful, cozy winter break
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2023

8/10 Good

Richard B.

Federal
Beautiful grounds and river.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Andrew S.

Liked: Cleanliness
A great family destination
A great family venue to relax and have the kids unplug and enjoy the outdoors. Louise was especially helpful and the cabin was tidy and well stocked. Would highly recommend.
Stayed 5 nights in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

Andrew K.

Liked: Cleanliness
A secluded hide-a-way
Having travelled from Sydney over a few stop-overs with Canadian friends and after enjoying two relaxed days in Federal Hilton I asked the friends what was the highlight of the trip. Their enthusiasm was for Federal. Arty, the solitude, the environment and thanked me for finding such an amazing place. Loved it Louise. Aileen Kelly
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2022

10/10 Excellent

Marc N.

Liked: Cleanliness
Amazing
Amazing. As usual
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

Kylie O.

Liked: Cleanliness
Amazing!!!
Absolutely amazing! The house is just gorgeous and perfect for a little get away surrounded by nature. Louise was super helpful and informative. Thank you
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

Barb H.

Liked: Cleanliness
Peaceful getaway
We had a lovely time at The Federal Hilton. Magical gardens to frolick and have a fire in; lots of gorgeous wildlife to spot; and a warm, cosy cottage with great kitschy gear to chill out in. It was clean, comfortable and all was as communicated. We’ll definitely be back.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2022

10/10 Excellent

Barb H.

Liked: Cleanliness
Magical
We had a sublime time at the Federal Hilton. Beautiful flowers and surrounds; amazing wildlife and lovely fur babies from next door! The children loved exploring and creating and the big people loved relaxing and reading by the fire or on the deck. Local walks and visits were great and the cottage itself was fabulous, inspirational while homely. Thanks so much - we loved our stay - we’ll be back.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2021

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Liked: Cleanliness
Thank you
It was a lovely spot and suited us perfectly. Thanks Louise.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2022

10/10 Excellent

Stu N.

Liked: Cleanliness
Fantastic stay
We loved our stay, fantastic cabin and fantastic property. It was a perfect base for discovering the area.
Stayed 5 nights in Apr 2022

10/10 Excellent

michelle m.

Liked: Cleanliness
Perfect Secluded Retreat
Rustic secluded getaway in the heart of Federal. Loved it with all the amenities that were required.
Stayed 5 nights in Dec 2021

10/10 Excellent

John D.

Liked: Cleanliness
Country Cottage
What a lovely warm and inviting cottage. Enjoyed the books and music and loved the fire. And a lovely property to stroll around.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2021

10/10 Excellent

olive m.

Liked: Cleanliness
A great retreat
It was a lovely break from the big smoke Very quiet and lovely to hear the birds, esp the kookaburra, in the morning. It was a very cold period, and great that there was a solid supply of firewood for the woodburner All appliances worked well. Very nice hot showers. Comfy beds. It suited me and my kids.. had lots to talk about and explore
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2021

10/10 Excellent

Sue P., PEARCEDALE

Liked: Cleanliness
Back into Wildernes
Loved the quirky design, colours and all the bits and pieces in this beautiful cottage. Its not luxury but its so comfortable and the log fire is lovely. Once opened up the house really connects with the outside and the surrounds are stunning, beautiful and loads of wildlife visitors. The local Cafe Doma and the Produce shop were amazing and had everything we needed for a great long weekend.
Stayed 5 nights in May 2021

8/10 Good

Michelle R.

Liked: Cleanliness
Getaway from it all
As described in listing. I chose this place for the restorative powers of the open fire and the river is a bonus. Stayed during a cold snap. Enough blankets and wood to keep us warm. Lots of little extras to look at in the cottage. Something different. I would stay again.
Stayed 4 nights in May 2021

10/10 Excellent

Hayley P.

Liked: Cleanliness
Anniversary weekend
Had a wonderful relaxing time . Explored all round the area and enjoyed the whole experience tremendously.. thank you
Stayed 3 nights in May 2021

10/10 Excellent

Miriam L.

Liked: Cleanliness
My Haven
Very quiet & secluded yet neighbours not far away if needed. Beautiful tress and shrubs around - enjoyed strolling around, down to the river etc. Perfect for dropping out of all the hassles for a while, I read, sketched, slept well & happily, thank you.

10/10 Excellent

Nick J.

Liked: Cleanliness
Beautiful ,secluded and very private property.
Really enjoyed this property, set in really nice bush surroundings with running creek and swimming hole all to ourselves!! The house is very cosy and comfortable. Will be back.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2021

10/10 Excellent

Hermes E.

Liked: Cleanliness
Bellingen
Great place with style
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2021

10/10 Excellent

Steve H.

Liked: Cleanliness
Federal Hilton bliss
This was our second stay at the FH. We returned for the beautiful bush setting and the location. Close enough to the towns and beaches but far enough to be away from the Byron bubble. The house is simple but charming with its eclectic styling and furnishings. Wonderful.
Stayed 11 nights in Jan 2021

8/10 Good

Justine G., ALEXANDRIA

Peaceful retreat
Spent a peaceful 8 days at Federal Hilton. The property is a little piece of paradise - tucked away and whisper quiet.
Stayed 8 nights in Dec 2020

8/10 Good

Amanda C., Sydney

Liked: Cleanliness
Cute rural cottage on outskirts of Federal
Great communication and checkin and terrific advice about things to do in the area. Cute cottage with unique decor reminding me of a mix of Grandmas house and ritual farm digs. Very friendly neighbourhood dogs came to visit and the native animal nightlife reminded us that we were remote and rural! A lovely stay thank you.
Stayed 5 nights in Nov 2020